Parking Fines Cost Tradespeople Over £119m Each Year

TRADESPEOPLE across the UK are struggling with costly parking problems when carrying out their work.

Over the past year, tradespeople are estimated to have been issued with 2.3 million parking tickets and fines, amounting to approximately £119 million.

The figures show the ongoing challenge of finding legal parking near job sites and are highlighted in new research from Direct Line business insurance.

Over four in five (81%) tradespeople say that they find it hard to park at least once a week when on a job. Most tradespeople (75%) end up not being able to find parking close to their workplace at least once a week.

Tool Theft

Almost half (48%) have turned down jobs because they couldn’t park within sight of their job site, citing concerns about tool theft.

Tradespeople often struggle to unload and move heavy tools, equipment and supplies when they are unable to park close to where they are working. This is especially the case in urban areas where numerous parking and unloading restrictions apply.

Parking Fines Costs

This not only results in delays and frustration but also takes a financial toll on tradespeople who are paying an average of £443 out of their own pocket in a typical year to park at jobs, and some are spending as much as £6,000 a year on parking.

Depending on the severity of the parking contravention, Penalty Charge Notices, or parking fines, can be anywhere between £50 – £130 each outside London and up to £160 in the capital, but are normally halved if paid within 14 days.

Furthermore, almost 3 in 10 (28%) tradespeople report that they have been clamped or towed whilst on the job.

Mark Summerville, Product Manager at Direct Line business insurance says: “Parking or off-loading tools and equipment close to a job can often be a challenge for tradespeople, adding stress to their working day.

“To avoid unnecessary fines and disruptions, it’s worth checking local parking restrictions before starting a job. Where possible, always check with the customer about on-street parking restrictions in the area and request a guest or visitor permit if available. Taking these steps can help reduce the risk of unexpected costs and delays, allowing tradespeople to focus on getting the job done.”

For details on when you can and can’t park on double yellow lines see: When Can You Park Your Van On Double Yellow Lines? – Direct Line For Business

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